Thursday, January 17, 2008

North Stars get liquor license

There’ll be more than just great hockey on tap when the Traverse City North Stars take the ice at Centre ICE arena. Beginning with the team’s Jan. 25-26 homestand, North Stars fans ages 21 and over will be able to enjoy beer and wine during the club’s remaining home dates.

“For those adults who choose to enjoy an adult beverage with their hockey, I think it adds to our game night experience,” said North Stars owner-president Steve Fournier. “Watching the game of hockey and the responsible enjoyment of a cold one by those age 21 and up – that’s a natural combo.”

Fans who wish to consume beer or wine must furnish government-issued photo identification and receive a wristband. The purchase and consumption of adult beverages will be limited to select areas of the arena – including a concourse lounge that overlooks the playing surface, and inside the rink behind the glass below the scoreboard. No alcoholic beverages will be permitted in the main grandstand or general admission bleachers.

“We think that we have come up with a way to implement this fan option without limiting any of the others,” Fournier added “It’s just one more dimension to the North Stars experience.”

The U.S. National Team Development Program’s Under-17 squad visits Centre ICE arena on Jan. 25-26, while geographic rival Alpena comes to town on Friday, Feb. 1.